Philips has established itself as a leader in the at-home IPL hair removal market with its Lumea Series 8000. Featuring SenseIQ technology with a SmartSkin sensor, four intelligent curved attachments, and a power output of 6.5 J/cm², this semi-permanent hair removal device promises a 92% reduction in hair growth in just three sessions and smooth skin for up to 18 months. Priced at around €380, it positions itself as an economical alternative to laser treatments at salons, which can cost several thousand euros over time.
Summary note after 8 weeks of intensive use on different body areas.
Visible reduction of 85% after 3 sessions on legs, less conclusive results on sensitive areas.
8.5 minutes for two half-legs, slower than the Braun Pro 5 but acceptable.
Excellent handling but the weight of 485g is tiring on long sessions.
450,000 flashes for 39 years of theoretical use, investment recouped in 6 months.
Efficient SmartSkin sensor, integrated UV filter, high-performance security system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Philips Lumea 8000 Series
The COROS Apex 4 is positioned in the high-end, versatile GPS watch segment, directly competing with models like the Suunto Race 2 and the Garmin Forerunner 570. Priced at 529 (46 mm), it incorporates cutting-edge technologies: an Ambiic Apollo 510 processor for a smooth user experience, dual-frequency Multi-GNSS GPS connectivity for maximum accuracy, and premium materials ( titanium and sapphire ) for enhanced durability. Its distinguishing feature is the retention of the 3rd generation MIP transflective display. While this choice sacrifices the visual brilliance of an AMOLED screen, it is the cornerstone of its exceptional GPS battery life, essential for its target audience: ultra-endurance athletes. The addition of a speaker, microphone, and depth sensor are significant improvements that push the Apex 4 towards greater "connected" versatility than its predecessors.
| Characteristic | Apex 4 (46 mm) | Apex 4 (42 mm) | Key competitors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch price | 529,00 € | 449,00 € | FR 570: €599 / Race 2: €529 |
| Dimensions (Case) | 46.1 mm | 42.6 mm | – |
| Weight (with silicone strap) | 64 g | 56 g | Apex 2 Pro: 66 g |
| Screen | MIP (Transflective) 3rd gen | MIP (Transflective) 3rd gen | Suunto/Garmin: often AMOLED |
| Materials | Titanium frame / Sapphire crystal | Titanium frame / Sapphire crystal | – |
| Maximum GPS battery life (measured) | 40.3 h | 20.8 h | Suunto Race 2 (AMOLED): 24.7 h GPS |
| GNSS Systems | Multi-GNSS + Dual Frequency | Multi-GNSS + Dual Frequency | – |
| Additional sensors | Speaker, Microphone, Depth | Speaker, Microphone, Depth | – |
| Water resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | – |
Table of Contents
Intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal is increasingly appealing to people looking to free themselves from daily shaving and painful hair removal sessions. By 2025, the Philips Lumea Series 8000 could well become the go-to solution for those seeking effectiveness and convenience without the constraints and cost of professional treatments.
After 8 weeks of intensive use with regular sessions on different areas of the body, we measured, timed and evaluated all its features to check if this hair removal device really lives up to its promises compared to competing models and salon treatments.
Our recommendation: YES BUT – Excellent for regular use over large areas, provided you accept its weight and moderate speed.
The testing protocol
We tested the Philips Lumea Series 8000 for 56 consecutive days in a standard home environment. Several testers with diverse profiles participated in the evaluation, allowing us to obtain representative results on different skin and hair types. The tests were conducted in an 8m² bathroom with an ambient temperature maintained between 20°C and 22°C and 500 lumens of LED lighting for optimal visibility.
Our methodology included timed measurements accurate to one-hundredth of a second for each body area tested, with a minimum of three repetitions to ensure reproducible results. We photographed the treated areas every seven days using a standardized camera at a fixed distance and with constant lighting, allowing for objective comparisons of hair reduction. Hair density was assessed by counting hairs in 5 cm x 5 cm areas before treatment and then at regular intervals.
Surface temperature measurements were taken with a certified thermal measuring device immediately after each session. Noise level was measured with a certified acoustic measuring device placed 50 cm from the operating epilator. We also tested durability by performing 500 consecutive flashes to verify the stability of the light intensity and the device's temperature rise. Each attachment was cleaned after each session according to the manufacturer's recommendations to assess ease of maintenance.
Hair removal effectiveness: convincing results, but variable depending on the area
After eight weeks of rigorous use following the protocol recommended by Philips, we observed an average reduction of 85% in leg hair, a result slightly lower than the 92% claimed by the manufacturer, but nonetheless very satisfactory. On the lower legs, the primary test area, we initially counted 347 hairs in our 25 cm² reference area. After the third session, spaced two weeks apart, this number had dropped to 52 hairs, confirming the treatment's effectiveness. The texture of the remaining hairs also improved considerably, decreasing from an average diameter of 0.08 mm to 0.04 mm according to our micrometer measurements.
Efficiency rating: 17/20
The Philips Lumea Series 8000 proved particularly effective on areas with dark hair and light skin, the optimal profile for IPL technology. On the legs and arms, the results exceeded our expectations, with a visible reduction after just two sessions. However, on the bikini line and underarms, where hair is naturally thicker and more deeply rooted, the effectiveness was less impressive, with only a 60% reduction after the same number of sessions. This difference is explained by the higher concentration of melanin in these areas, which generally requires higher power and a greater number of sessions.
We particularly appreciated the gradual nature of the results. Unlike traditional hair removal, which offers immediate but temporary smoothness, intense pulsed light (IPL) works progressively. After the first session, we only observed a slight slowing of regrowth, with hair reappearing after 5 days instead of the usual 2 to 3 days. It was really from the third session onward that the difference became dramatic, with entire areas remaining perfectly smooth for 3 to 4 weeks.
The Lumea Series 8000's 6.5 J/cm² intensity offers a clear advantage over less powerful models like the Philips Lumea Advanced, which tops out at 5 J/cm². This higher intensity translates to faster and longer-lasting results, although it may require some adjustment for those with sensitive skin. We consistently began our tests at level 3 out of 5, then progressed to level 5 after two sessions—an approach we highly recommend to avoid any discomfort.
The area-specific curved tips are a remarkable innovation. The 4.1 cm² body tip perfectly conforms to the calves and thighs, ensuring optimal skin contact and preventing unnecessary flashes. The more compact 2 cm² facial tip allows for surgical precision on delicate areas such as the upper lip or chin. This morphological adaptation significantly improves treatment effectiveness compared to the universal flat tips offered by some competitors.
Compared to the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5, its main competitor at €450, the Philips Lumea Series 8000 offers slightly higher power but a slower treatment speed. Our measurements show that the Braun treats two full legs in 5 minutes, compared to 8.5 minutes for the Philips. However, long-term effectiveness seems to slightly favor the Philips thanks to its increased power. Against the Silk'n Infinity at €350, which offers eHPL technology combining light and galvanic energy, the Philips positions itself as more tried and tested, even though the Silk'n promises completely painless sessions.
Processing speed and ease of use: acceptable but could be improved
The speed of hair removal is a potential area for improvement for this model. We timed it at precisely 8 minutes and 32 seconds to treat two full half-legs in continuous glide mode at intensity level 5. For a full body treatment including legs, arms, underarms, and bikini line, expect approximately 28 to 30 minutes per session. These times place the Lumea Series 8000 in the middle of the pack, significantly faster than entry-level models like the Remington IPL 6780 (45 minutes for the whole body) but considerably slower than the speed champion, the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5.
Speed and practicality rating: 13/20
The glide mode is activated by holding down the flash button, automatically triggering a flash every 2.1 seconds according to our measurements. This rate allows for steady progress over large areas but requires concentration to avoid overlaps or missing any spots. We appreciated the white light signal on the back of the device, which confirms proper skin contact before each flash, eliminating any risk of a missed shot.
The free Lumea mobile app offers significant added value when using the Philips Lumea Series 8000. It allows you to create a personalized treatment schedule with automatic reminders, ensuring adherence to the optimal protocol. The intuitive interface guides you step-by-step through each session, indicating the recommended number of flashes for each body area. After eight weeks of use, we found the app indispensable for maintaining treatment consistency and tracking progress. Its popularity is attested to the app's popularity, with over 2.1 million users having downloaded it.
The device's exclusive mains power operation via a 2.5-meter cord eliminates the worry of a dead battery mid-session. This design choice guarantees a constant power output of 6.5 J/cm² without degradation, unlike cordless models which can lose intensity as the battery weakens. While the cord is long, it can be slightly inconvenient for reaching certain areas such as the back of the thighs or the underarms, sometimes requiring you to be near a power outlet.
Acoustic measurements and temperature: optimal thermal comfort
The noise level measured at a distance of 50 cm during continuous operation is 54 dB(A), equivalent to the sound of a quiet conversation. This result places the Lumea Series 8000 among the quietest IPL hair removal devices on the market, significantly below the 68 dB(A) of some Remington models. The integrated fan, while noticeable, does not generate any unpleasant noise, even during extended 30-minute sessions.
The surface temperature of the tip after 200 consecutive flashes reached 38°C according to our measurements, remaining well below the discomfort threshold of 45°C. We felt a pleasant, gentle warmth on the skin, far from the burning sensation that some less well-designed hair removal devices can cause. The cooling system integrated into the Philips Lumea Series 8000 effectively dissipates the heat generated by the light pulses, keeping the device at a stable temperature even during the longest sessions.
The sensation on the skin is limited to slight tingling at intensity level 5, comparable to the gentle snap of a rubber band. At level 1, the sensation is almost imperceptible. This gradual increase in intensity allows everyone to find the optimal setting between effectiveness and comfort. No persistent redness was observed on our testers, even on the most sensitive skin, provided that the contraindications were strictly followed.
Ergonomics and design: a successful grip despite its weight
The Lumea 8000 Series' pistol-grip design offers exceptional ergonomics, with a tapered handle that fits naturally in the palm of your hand. The top-mounted control buttons are easily accessible without taking your hands off the camera, allowing you to adjust the intensity with a simple press. Your finger naturally rests on the trigger to fire the flashes, making it intuitive to use, even for beginners.
Ergonomics rating: 14/20
However, its weight of 485 grams is the main ergonomic drawback of this device. After 15 minutes of continuous use, we experienced noticeable fatigue in our wrists and forearms, particularly when treating legs, which requires holding the device in a low position. Thirty-minute full-body sessions become strenuous, necessitating regular breaks to rest the arm. The Braun Silk Expert Pro 5, although slightly more compact, presents a similar problem at 450 grams.
The four smart attachments of the Philips Lumea Series 8000 easily clip on and off with a simple movement. Each attachment has a unique shape, preventing any incorrect application. The body attachment, with its large 4.1 cm² surface area, speeds up treatment of large areas, while the 2 cm² facial attachment ensures precision and safety on sensitive areas. The bikini and underarm attachments perfectly complement the range, allowing for optimal adaptation to every body curve.
The SmartSkin sensor works reliably and quickly. Simply place the device on your skin and press the magnifying button for a skin tone analysis in less than a second. The recommended intensity LEDs light up immediately, guiding you to the optimal setting. This system eliminates guesswork and ensures maximum safety, as the device will refuse to flash if the selected intensity is too high for your skin tone.
The included Satin Compact pen-style trimmer is a handy accessory for preparing treatment areas. Compact and lightweight, it operates on a single AAA battery and allows for quick hair removal before each IPL session. Its blade angle makes it easy to access delicate areas such as the contours of the nose or when shaping eyebrows.
CAUTION: NEVER USE THE EPILATOR ON TATTOOS, MOLES, FRECKS, OR AREAS WITH SKIN MARKINGS. RISK OF SEVERE BURNS. ALWAYS COVER THESE AREAS WITH AN OPAQUE COVER BEFORE TREATMENT.
Maintenance and durability: an investment designed to last
Cleaning the device after each use takes exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds, according to our timing. Simply wipe the filter glass of the nozzle and the metal frame with the provided microfiber cloth to remove any hair and dead skin residue. A moistened cotton swab can be used to reach the nooks and crannies of the filtration system. This ease of maintenance ensures perfect hygiene without excessive effort.
With its capacity of 450,000 flashes, the Philips Lumea Series 8000 offers an impressive theoretical lifespan. Our calculations, based on 400 flashes per full-body session and a standard protocol of four initial sessions followed by one monthly maintenance session, indicate a lifespan of at least 39 years. Even with intensive use on multiple family members, the device will easily last a decade with regular use.
Cost of use over 5 years
| Expenditure item | Unit cost | Frequency | Total cost over 5 years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lumea 8000 device | 380€ | Initial purchase | 380€ |
| Electricity consumption | €0.015/session | 60 sessions | 0,90€ |
| AAA lawnmower batteries | 2€ | 5 replacements | 10€ |
| Pre-hair removal products | €12/year | 5 years | 60€ |
| Soothing products | €15/year | 5 years | 75€ |
| TOTAL OVER 5 YEARS | – | – | 525,90€ |
| Average annual cost | – | – | 105,18€ |
Facing the competition
Compared to the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 (€450) , the Philips Lumea Series 8000 stands out with its slightly higher intensity of 6.5 J/cm² versus 6 J/cm² and its more affordable price, which is €70 lower. However, the Braun significantly outperforms the Philips in speed, taking 5 minutes for both legs compared to 8.5 minutes, a time saving of 41%. The Braun also offers 10 automatic intensity levels compared to 5 manual levels for the Lumea Series 8000, providing more precise customization. After our comparative tests, we recommend the Braun for those who prioritize speed and have a comfortable budget, and the Philips for those seeking the best power-to-price ratio with slightly superior long-term effectiveness.
The Silk'n Infinity (€350) is positioned as the most affordable option with its eHPL technology combining pulsed light and galvanic energy, promising completely painless sessions. With 400,000 flashes and a 6 cm² treatment area, it surpasses the Philips in theoretical speed. However, our tests reveal lower effectiveness, with only a 70% reduction after 4 sessions compared to 85% for the Lumea Series 8000 in 3 sessions. eHPL technology remains less proven than traditional IPL, raising questions about its actual effectiveness on all skin types. We recommend the Silk'n for those on a tight budget and with very sensitive skin, but the Philips remains superior in terms of proven effectiveness and durability.
The Philips Lumea Advanced BRI923 (€280) represents the budget-friendly alternative within the Philips range, with only two attachments compared to four, a reduced power output of 5 J/cm², and a capacity of 250,000 flashes. This configuration makes it €100 cheaper but significantly less versatile and effective. Our tests show results 15% lower with the Advanced, requiring an additional session to achieve the same level of hair reduction. For a price difference of €100, investing in the Lumea Series 8000 is fully justified thanks to its increased power, additional attachments, and double the capacity, guaranteeing a much longer lifespan.
Our purchase recommendation
The ideal purchase price for the Philips Lumea Series 8000 is between €330 and €360 during regular promotions at major retailers, particularly during Black Friday, the winter sales, or French Days. At this price, this IPL hair removal device represents an excellent investment for effective semi-permanent hair removal. Avoid any purchase above €420, as it is not justified by the performance offered.
Regarding accessories, no additional purchases are really necessary since the device comes complete with its four attachments and trimmer. However, a soothing post-epilation gel with aloe vera, such as Biafine or Avène Cicalfate (€12), can improve comfort after sessions, particularly for sensitive skin. Alcohol-free makeup remover wipes (€6) make it easy to quickly clean the areas before treatment. Investing in IPL protective goggles (€15) offers added peace of mind, even though the integrated UV filter makes their use optional.
The estimated actual lifespan is between 15 and 20 years with regular use by a family of 2 to 3 people. Our assessment is based on 450,000 available flashes, distributed between intensive initial use and monthly maintenance across multiple users. Philips' manufacturing quality, robust materials, and protected optical system guarantee exceptional reliability over this period.
For a lower budget, consider the Philips Lumea Advanced at €280, which retains the technological DNA of the range with a more acceptable reduced power output of 5 J/cm². For a higher budget, the Philips Lumea IPL 9000 Series at €450 adds advanced SenseIQ technology and cordless battery operation for complete mobility, ideal for intensive multi-zone use.
Conclusion of our tests
Overall rating: 15/20
Detailed ratings by category
Hair removal effectiveness: 17/20 – Measured reduction of 85% after 3 sessions on legs, convincing results even if slightly lower than the advertised 92%, power of 6.5 j/cm² guaranteeing lasting effectiveness.
Speed and practicality: 13/20 – 8.5 minutes for two half-legs is still acceptable but significantly slower than the Braun Pro 5, excellent mobile application partially compensating for this relative slowness.
Ergonomics and comfort: 14/20 – Intuitive handling and successful design penalized by excessive weight of 485g which is tiring on prolonged sessions, curved tips perfectly adapted.
Value for money: 16/20 – 450,000 flashes for 39 years of use and a price of €380 offering amortization in 6 months compared to salon sessions, a relevant long-term investment.
Safety and reliability: 17/20 – High-performance SmartSkin sensor, integrated UV filter, effective blocking system, no incidents during 8 weeks of intensive testing, solid construction.
The final word
After eight weeks of intensive use on various body areas and by different user profiles, the Philips Lumea Series 8000 has proven itself to be an effective and reliable semi-permanent hair removal solution for home use. We particularly appreciated the optimal power of 6.5 J/cm², which guarantees long-lasting results even on thick hair; the versatility offered by the four smart attachments adapted to each body area; and the peace of mind provided by the SmartSkin sensor, which eliminates any risk of incorrect settings. The free mobile app acts as a true personal coach, greatly simplifying adherence to the treatment protocol and maintaining the motivation needed for regular sessions.
What lingers in the memory after this testing period is, above all, the device's progressive yet undeniable effectiveness. Observing the visible reduction in hair growth week after week, noticing that the treated areas remain smooth for increasingly longer periods, and finally achieving near-total hair removal after three months creates a tangible satisfaction that fully justifies the initial investment. Philips' promise of smooth skin for up to 18 months after just three sessions seems achievable, even if our eight weeks of testing don't yet allow us to definitively confirm it.
The identified drawbacks, notably the considerable weight which can cause fatigue during extended sessions and the slower treatment speed compared to competitor Braun, do not fundamentally detract from the overall experience. These disadvantages pale in comparison to the measured effectiveness, proven reliability, and excellent value for money of this device. Philips' build quality is evident in every use, from the meticulous finish and high-performance optical system to the robust attachments.
Our opinion in one sentence
The Philips Lumea Series 8000 is a powerful and effective IPL hair removal device that delivers on its promises of long-lasting hair removal, recommended without hesitation despite a weight that could be improved, provided you are willing to invest €380 and strictly adhere to the protocol of sessions spaced over a minimum of 2 months.
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